Suspect fires gun from back of squad, killed by police

The suspect somehow managed to get out of his handcuffs and pull a gun from his pants

By PoliceOne Staff

HIGHLAND PARK, Texas — A suspect was fatally shot by police after he managed to get out of his handcuffs and grab a small concealed handgun, which he fired in the back of a police squad.

David Hartman, 32, was stopped after a concerned motorist called 911 to report the motorcycle he was riding had been following their vehicle, according to NBC 5.

Officers located the motorcycle — which was reported stolen — in a parking lot, but Hartman eluded questioning and fled on the bike, causing a brief pursuit.

Officers were able to stop and detain him, but apparently missed the gun in his pants while searching him.

"The suspect was able to escape the handcuffs where he was able to use a small firearm he still had on his person," said Lt. Marc Rossini, according to WFAA. "The suspect fired one shot out of the patrol car. Both officers returned fire striking the suspect."

Hartman was taken to the hospital where he later died. Both officers, seasoned veterans of the force, were not injured.